Chimney & Fireplaces/adding fireplace to existing fireplace

QuestionWe are adding rooms to our two story home and want to make the existing fire place a double fireplace also opening into the new room addition. It is elevated 18 inches from the floor. The architect seems reluctant to tear into the existing brick chimney. I know venting can be issue but believe there are exhaust fans? Are there other specific probable problem areas? Thanks

AnswerHi Harvey,

Converting a single-sided masonry fireplace to a multi-sided fireplace is problematic at best and impossible at worst.

The biggest issue is the cross-sectional area needed to properly vent the new double-sided fireplace.

Yes, there are exhaust fans available, but it would require a battery backup and an audible alarm system for woodburning.

It is generally my recommendation that this not be attempted.

Over the past 36 years, I've seen less than a half-dozen cases where this type of conversion was potentially possible. Of those, after we ran the numbers on labor and materials, we completed 1.

Advice given is general in nature. Local laws and ordinances may govern and/or supersede the information and recommendations provided. Final determinations are the responsibility of a local professional with first-hand knowledge of the situation, and the AHJ.

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Comment

Disappointing but thank you for your clear prompt response. We are from Kansas so it was especially fun to hear from a fellow Jayhawker! Your expertise is appreciated.

Expertise

I can answer questions related to chimney and fireplace cleaning, construction and repair as well as questions related to the performance of chimneys and fireplaces. I can also answer questions related to clothes dryer vent cleaning and repair. Additionally, I can field questions related to masonry repair.

Experience

Experience in the area:28 years experience in the chimney service/installation/repair field
President, Home Safe Hearth & Chimney, Inc. Wichita, Kansas

Publications:SWEEPING Magazine, The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technoloty, A Publication of the National Chimney Sweep Guild
SNEWS, The Chimney Sweep News
THE KANSAS SWEEP, The Voice of the KS Guild of Professional Chimney Sweeps